Knucklehead Build Part 8: Generator, Oil Lines, Exhaust Install

The motor, transmission, oil tank, and rear fender have been installed into the rolling chassis.
Kevin is ready to install a new 12 volt generator. With this Knucklehead generator, a separate voltage regulator rectifier is not needed. There is a regulator on the end of this generator.
The new Knucklehead generator is mounted along with a new gasket.

There are two possible options for generator mounting. It is important to choose the location that best positions the two electrical contact posts. The two Knucklehead generator mounting bolts need to be tightened evenly. It is important that the bolts are not over tightened.

With the exhaust system still out of the way, Kevin installs the oil lines. Any oil lines or fittings that are reused have been thoroughly cleaned and prepped. The oil feed line is installed first. The line runs from the lowest fitting on the back corner of the oil tank, and forward to a fitting on the front of the oil pump.

Next, the vent line is installed between the oil tank and the crankcase.
It is important that oil fittings are started by hand. If something is not going together smoothly; stop and take a step back. Avoid cross threading important oil fittings. Teflon paste can be a helpful aid for sealing oil fittings. The return line is installed last. It has a rubber hose in-between two metal lines for flexibility.

The exhaust system does not use any gaskets or seals. The pipes simply fit snugly over the exhaust ports at the front and rear heads. The pipes also have a snug fit into one another. This type of exhaust does tend to leak. However, if a system is in good condition, exhaust leaks will not be very noticeable and should not affect performance.

The front head pipe and squish pipe are installed first. The squish pipe is secured to a frame tab along with the rear brake switch. The rear, Y pipe, is secured to the rear head and into the squish pipe. This pipe is also secured to the frame at the Y pipe – muffler junction just below the transmission end.

Next up, Kevin can begin assembly of the primary drive.

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